Opustená (re)kreácia

Architecture of Trenčianske Teplice

In many respects, Trenčianske Teplice is an
extraordinary spot on the map of Slovakia. For centuries, it has been
recognised for its healing thermal water springs. These were already well-known
to the Roman legions during their expeditions beyond the borders of the Roman Empire.
The healing effects of the water in Trenčianske Teplice used to be popular
among peasants as well as the Hungarian nobility. The rapidly changing era of
the past 200 years has been reflected in the spa’s development. Various decades
illustrate changes in society, its needs and cultural preferences. Through
these changes, Trenčianske Teplice is an open book telling the story of the
dawn of the modern man as we see it now. The 20th century (C20) left its most
distinct imprint here and Trenčianske Teplice became the town where new forms
and contents of the architecture called functionalism were born and tested.
This guidebook is a reflection of a group of young people who had
been visiting the town during the famous film festival Art Film Fest, and who,
since 2011, have been actively working with the town´s memory within the
Abandoned (Re)creation project.

The town´s architecture with its quality,
artistic and historical value shines beyond the Slovak borders. Witnessing the
poor condition of these treasures was the reason for seeking an explanation for
the public’s apathy towards these historic values. This guidebook is
a result of years of research and monitoring changes and development in
architecture. It aims to present an experience of local architecture to every
curious visitor to Trenčianske Teplice, a town famous not only for its
curative springs, but also for its architecture. This guidebook is divided into
four walking routes according to chapter colour. Each part: Artúr Szalatnai, The Park, Beyond theTown
and Late Modernism contains buildings
which should not be left unnoticed. We hope that this guidebook helps you
discover new places and new knowledge that will enrich your stay. Do not forget
that spa is a place of recreation, where time plays no role. Therefore,
the pace of your tour for the monuments of the 20th century should be
recreational. Give architecture some time to impress you.